Knitted 30% Shade Cloth – 10' x 100'

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Used to reduce soil temperatures, prevent sun damage of crops like peppers and eggplant, speed growth of cool weather fall crops, prevent bolting and bitterness of heat-sensitive crops (such as lettuce and spinach) and protect against wind damage and dessication. Made of 100% UV stabilized black polyethylene, it is naturally rot and mildew proof. This lock-stitch knitted shade cloth is lighter weight, and has better ventilation and water permeation than woven shade cloth, and can be cut without unraveling. Has a life of 5-7 years, more if stored out of the sun during periods of non-use. Providing shade of any type can reduce the ambient temperature around your plants by 10°F or more - in some cases, enough to keep plants from going dormant in the hottest weather. The key to success with shade cloth is to hang it high enough above the plants, and provide enough ventilation that heat does not build up beneath it. 10' width is compatible with Quick Hoops low tunnels. Shade cloth can be laid over Quick Hoops, with the sides uncovered for maximum ventilation. We recommend securing with Snap Clamps. 20' width is ideal for use on high tunnels. Density indicates percentage of light blocked by the cloth; 30% cloth allows 70% light transmission, etc. Guidelines: For solonaceous crops such as tomatoes and peppers, use 30% shade cloth in areas with very hot summers; for cold-loving lettuce, spinach and cole crops, use 50% in hot, southern areas, 30% in northern zones. For shade-loving plants, use 50%.